Head of Children’s Services

Join to apply for the Head of Children’s Services role at Y Northern Territory . Base pay range: A$150,000.00/yr – A$160,000.00/yr. About Y Northern Territory (Y NT) At Y NT, we are dedicated to helping children, young people, and communities thrive. Whether through our Early Learning Centres, Outside Hours School Care, Recreation Centres, Aquatic facilities, Youth Programs or Remote Pools program, we are committed to supporting Territorians to be connected, educated, resilient, and healthy. Opportunity As the Head of Children’s Services, you will provide strategic leadership and oversight of Y NT’s Early Learning Centres and Outside School Hours Care services across the Northern Territory. This executive-level role is responsible for driving high‑quality, culturally responsive, and financially sustainable children’s services that reflect the Y NT’s mission, values, and commitment to community strengthening. Benefits 5 Weeks Annual Leave. Free access to the recreation facilities we manage. Discounted rates at Y Childcare Centres. Rebatable salary packaging. Key Responsibilities Strategic Leadership & Community Engagement Provide strategic leadership across Early Learning and OSHC services in the NT. Build strong partnerships with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities, government, and sector stakeholders. Champion inclusive, culturally safe and community‑responsive services aligned to Y NT values. People & Culture Lead, support and develop Area Managers and central support teams. Oversee recruitment, performance management, succession planning and professional development. Manage complex complaints and grievances. Operations, Quality & Compliance Oversee multi‑site operations, quality outcomes and regulatory compliance. Monitor performance, risk, occupancy and financial indicators across all services. Manage critical incidents and regulatory engagement. Pedagogy & Educational Excellence Provide strategic guidance on pedagogy, mentoring and quality improvement. Oversee Quality Improvement Plans and inclusive, play‑based learning practices. Promote continuous improvement across education teams. Financial Sustainability Oversee budgets, occupancy targets and staffing within ratios. Ensure strong financial governance and sustainable service delivery. Identify opportunities for growth and community partnerships. Innovation & Improvement Lead change initiatives and service improvements. Anticipate sector trends to enhance accessibility, quality and impact. Qualifications and Experience Tertiary qualification in Early Childhood Education, Education, or related field. Postgraduate qualification in Leadership, Management, or Training & Assessment (highly advantageous). Current NT driver’s licence. Minimum 15 years’ experience in Early Childhood Education. Proven experience in senior or executive leadership roles. Extensive knowledge and application of the National Quality Framework and Early Years Learning Framework. Demonstrated experience in change management, performance management, and grievance resolution. Strong financial acumen and experience overseeing budgets. Demonstrated cultural competence and experience working with diverse communities. Excellent written, verbal, and stakeholder engagement skills. Willingness and ability to travel extensively across the NT. Mandatory Requirements YMCA, including its Boards of Directors, are committed to the safety and well‑being of children and young people in accordance with our Safeguarding Children and Young People framework. YMCA requires that all applicants undergo satisfactory screening prior to commencement, including but not limited to: Valid Working with Children Clearance. Satisfactory Criminal History Check. Any successfully appointed applicant will be required to adhere to the Safeguarding Children and Young People framework, which includes a thorough safeguarding children and young people induction and a commitment to upholding the safety and wellbeing of children and young people throughout their engagement with YMCA. Further Information For a detailed position description please paste the following link into your internet browser: All applications should be accompanied by a cover letter detailing suitability for the position and a copy of your CV. Applications close Monday 12th January 2026. Seniority level Mid‑Senior level. Employment type Full‑time. Job function Management. Industries Education Administration Programs. #J-18808-Ljbffr